Residual Solvents Testing by GC &KF

At Chromak Research, we provide expertise in residual solvents testing by GC & KF for the safety, purity, and regulatory compliance of cosmetics and personal care products. Through the use of Gas Chromatography (GC) and Karl Fischer (KF) titration, we precisely determine and quantify volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and moisture content that can be left behind after production. These state-of-the-art technologies are free from contamination, ensure the product quality, and allow world standards.

Chromak Research is a reliable contract testing laboratory that collaborates with cosmetic companies and manufacturers in order to offer analytical data that plays a crucial role in product formulation, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

Why Residual Solvents Testing Is Important

Residual solvents are chemical substances which can become trapped in cosmetic products during processing, especially where the use of solvents to dissolve ingredients, extract botanicals, or sterilize equipment is involved. If not properly removed, the solvents can:

  • Compromise skin compatibility and product safety

  • Be a source of irritation, sensitization, or allergic reaction

  • Influence stability and fragrance character

  • Cross over regulatory levels set by bodies such as the FDA and EU

Moisture analysis also plays a vital role in inhibiting microbial growth, formulation instability, and lower shelf life. The reason why residual solvent testing and water content testing are rigorously required for high-quality cosmetic products is that they prevent all the above-stated complications from arising.

GC & KF: High-Tech Methods of Accurate Testing

We employ two gold-standard technologies for detecting and quantifying trace-level impurities:

Gas Chromatography (GC) for Residual Solvents

GC analysis of residual solvents in cosmetics facilitates class 1, class 2, and class 3 volatile solvents separation and quantitation. The International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) has developed guidelines (Q3C) for residual solvents in drugs, which are routinely referred to for use in cosmetic products too. USP <467> residual solvent chapter that contains procedures for analysis and acceptance criteria.

Our advanced GC instrumentation records even trace parts-per-million (ppm) concentrations to guarantee your products meet global regulatory and safety standards.

Karl Fischer (KF) Titration for Moisture Analysis

KF moisture analysis is the most precise method for determining trace content of water in raw materials, emulsions, and final cosmetic products. Proper determination of moisture is crucial to:

  • Prevent microbial contamination
  • Ensure product texture and performance
  • Ensure packaging material compatibility

At Chromak Research, we employ Karl Fischer titration in order to provide accurate results for free and bound water content in creams, gels, serums, and powders.

Products We Test

Our residual solvent and moisture testing services are well-suited to a range of cosmetic and personal care products, such as Skincare, Haircare, Makeup, Fragrances, deodorants, Bath and body products.

Whether raw materials or finished goods, our laboratory makes them safe, stable, and compliant.

Why Choose Chromak Research?

  • Trained GC and KF testing for cosmetics

  • Accelerated turnaround with accurate, validated data

  • Regulatory-compliant reports and COAs

  • State-of-the-art instrumentation and trained analysts

  • Flexible testing alternatives for R&D and production lots

Validate your cosmetics’ safety and performance with accuracy residual solvents and moisture testing.

Collaborate with Chromak Research to receive accurate GC & KF testing services that are tailored for your formulation and regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is residual solvents testing in cosmetics and why is it important?

Residual solvents analysis in cosmetics is done to detect and measure volatile substances potentially left behind after manufacturing processes. It is required for product safety, compliance with regulations, and prevention of skin irritation, toxicity, or functionality impairment. We utilize Gas Chromatography (GC) in Chromak Research to identify solvents in cosmetic products on a regular basis.

Our GC testing of residual solvents in cosmetics can identify extensive types of solvents including ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, acetone, hexane, toluene, and ethyl acetate. Solvents may be raw materials, process aids, or cleaning residues and have to be strictly traced to come within acceptable parameters.

Karl Fischer (KF) moisture determination is the most sought after procedure to analyze water content in cosmetics and personal care products. Reliable measurement of moisture prevents microbial contamination, ensures the stability of the product, and maintains shelf life consistency—particularly in creams, lotions, gels, and powders.

Residual solvent and moisture test is suggested for all cosmetic and personal care products such as skin lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, serums, cosmetic makeup items, and perfumes. Irrespective of using water-based, oil-based, or emulsified products, our testing ensures ingredient purity and formula integrity.